Rockies expected to tender contracts to Fowler, four others

DENVER -- Before the Rockies jet off to Nashville, Tenn., for next week's winter meetings, they have a housekeeping chore to complete.

Today marks the deadline to offer contracts for the upcoming season to arbitration-eligible players. Players who are nontendered (not offered a contract) would join the free-agent pool. The Rockies, however, are expected to tender offers to all five of their eligible players.

Topping the list is center fielder Dexter Fowler, who is arbitration eligible for the second time. The projected value of his one-year contract is expected to be between $4.5 million and $5 million. He made $2.35 million in 2012. Toward the end of the season, the Rockies expressed some interest in offering Fowler a long-term deal. However, it has become clear the club is more comfortable offering Fowler a one-year deal though the arbitration process.

There has been speculation the Rockies will trade Fowler or right fielder/first baseman Michael Cuddyer to acquire a veteran pitcher. While the Rockies have taken calls about both players, Bill Geivett, the senior vice president of major league operations, reiterated this week that the club is not actively looking to shop either player.

Still, the Atlanta Braves, Philadelphia Phillies and Tampa Bay Rays are looking for help in center field and could inquire about Fowler when the winter meetings begin Monday.

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Fowler hit .300 with career highs in home runs (13) and RBIs (53) last season.

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